Walk a mile for a meal at Staten Island event

STATEN ISLAND, NY - PLEASANT PLAINS -- South Shore residents strolling the scenic grounds of Mount Loretto this weekend will be doing more than just filling their lungs with a little fresh air.

They'll be filling the cupboards of the less fortunate.

The Franciscan Handmaids of Mary is sponsoring its second annual "Walk to Help Feed Others" on Saturday at the Pleasant Plains facility.

All proceeds will go toward replenishing the 60-year-old St. Edward Food Pantry.

Now located on the Mount Loretto grounds after being relocated from the former Camp St. Edward site, the pantry provides foodstuffs for those in need each Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

"Last year, we raised more than $16,000," said Dina Gioello, a member of the fund-raiser committee. "And this year, we're hoping to top that."

The entry fee is just $5 for adults and $1 for children under 12 years old. Participants and non-participants can also agree to sponsor walkers in whatever amount they can contribute.

Check-in for the walk, which runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., is at 9:30 a.m.

After navigating the one-mile course, walkers will be treated to entertainment, including clowns, a DJ, food and ice cream vendors and several prize giveaways.

Mount Loretto is located at 6581 Hylan Blvd. Call 718-984-1625 for additional information on the event or on the food pantry itself.